PAWA Elects New Leadership in 2025 Congress: One Literary Voice Across Continents

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In a defining moment for continental unity and creative continuity, the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) has successfully elected a new leadership team during its 2025 General Assembly. Held under the banner of pan-African literary empowerment, the elections were marked by transparency, dignity, and a firm commitment to inclusive representation across Africa and the diaspora.

A Carefully Guided Democratic Process

The electoral journey began on July 12, 2025, with the inauguration of a new Election Committee, originally chaired by Prof. Cherno Omar Barry of The Gambia. Leadership of the committee transitioned seamlessly to Mr. Goima Peter Mwamwingila of Tanzania, with the support of an experienced team:

• Ms. Lucille Mudenda (Zambia)

• Ms. Salma El Nour (Sudan)

• Mr. Ernest Oppong (Ghana) as Technical Adviser

Their role was critical in overseeing nominations and ensuring a fair and inclusive process that reflected PAWA’s renewed vision for unity in African letters.

Structure of Leadership: Six Regions, One Voice

PAWA’s organizational model is anchored in six representative arms, each symbolizing a distinct geopolitical region:

• Northern Africa

• Eastern Africa

• Western Africa

• Southern Africa

• Central Africa

• Diaspora (Outside the Continent)

Each region now sends a Vice President (VP) to the PAWA Executive Council, forming a leadership mosaic that mirrors the diversity of African cultures and stories. At the center of this structure is the President, who offers strategic vision, and the Secretary General, who oversees daily operations and policy implementation—functioning as the head of PAWA’s executive affairs.

The Presidential Race: A Democratic Milestone

Unlike other posts, which were uncontested, the presidency unfolded as a spirited yet respectful contest between Prof. Bill Ndi (Cameroon/Diaspora) and Madam Imela Oyono Ayingono (Equatorial Guinea).

When the virtual ballot closed on July 18 at 4 PM GMT, a total of 42 votes had been cast by PAWA delegates. After a verification process, 5 votes were disqualified due to irregularities, resulting in 37 valid votes.

• Prof. Bill Ndi secured a commanding victory with 23 votes (62.16%),

• comfortably surpassing the constitutional requirement of 50% +1.

Prof. Ndi was therefore declared President for the next three-year term, entrusted with guiding the literary body into a new era of growth and global presence.

Meet the 2025 PAWA Leadership

President

Prof. Bill F. Ndi — Cameroon/Diaspora A celebrated academic, poet, and translator known for his work bridging African, Francophone, and global literary landscapes. Prof. Ndi is a professor at Tuskegee University in the Department of Modern Languages, Communication, and Philosophy. He holds multiple doctorates in Languages: Translation & Languages, Literatures and Contemporary Civilizations from Paris, Université de Cergy-Pontoise.

Secretary General (PAWA CEO)

Dr. Wale Okediran — Nigeria

A seasoned literary figure and cultural diplomat. Dr. Okediran is a multifaceted Nigerian figure, recognized as a medical doctor, prolific author, and public servant. He has distinguished himself in literature, medicine, and politics. Dr. Okediran is a former member of the Nigerian Parliament and once served as the National President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).

Vice Presidents by Region:

Mr. Ashraf Aboul Yazid (Northern) Prof. Egara Kabaji (Eastern) Prof. Cherno Omar Barry (Western)

Mr. Carlos Paradona (Southern) Mr. Eric Joel Bekale (Central) Ms. Reyna Lineres Jones(Diaspora)

• Northern Africa: Mr. Ashraf Aboul Yazid — Egypt Veteran journalist, poet, and cultural bridge-builder between North Africa and the Arab literary world.

• Eastern Africa: Professor Egara Kabaji — Kenya A literary scholar and thought leader, championing East Africa’s narrative in academic and creative spheres.

• Western Africa: Professor Cherno Omar Barry — The Gambia Returning in a new capacity after chairing the electoral committee, Prof. Barry brings historical insight and a deep commitment to literary heritage.

• Southern Africa: Mr. Carlos Paradona — Mozambique An advocate for Lusophone African literature, known for nurturing multilingual literary expression.

• Central Africa: Mr. Eric Joel Bekale — Gabon Author and cultural curator, representing the richness and resilience of Central African storytelling.

• Diaspora: Ms. Reyna Lineres Jones — Diaspora A strong voice from the diaspora, bridging continental narratives with global African identities.

  
  

Honoring the Groundwork of President John Rusumbi

No leadership transition would be complete without recognizing the foundational efforts of outgoing President John Rusumbi. A literary patriot and seasoned administrator, President Rusumbi’s tenure laid crucial groundwork for the systems now in place. His visionary dedication helped shape PAWA’s regional structure, strengthen its governance, and expand its recognition across linguistic, national, and generational divides.

PAWA’s current momentum owes much to the tireless service of leaders like Rusumbi, whose legacy continues to inspire both emerging and veteran African writers.

A Literary Council for a New Era

This new leadership marks a diverse and dynamic literary council poised to navigate PAWA through the evolving cultural, linguistic, and socio-political landscapes of African literature. In his closing statement, Mr. Mwamwingila extended heartfelt thanks to his fellow committee members and the General Assembly for entrusting them with this honorable responsibility.

As PAWA enters a new chapter of its journey, the literary world watches with anticipation, inspired by the organization’s unwavering dedication to dialogue, creativity, and continental cohesion.

PAWA rises—stronger, bolder, and more united than ever.

For more information, partnerships, or membership inquiries, please visit www.pawa-waford.org or contact the Secretariat: info@pawa-waford.org.